Staying Safe on a First Date
It all begins with an idea.
Safety is central to our mission, as we know that dating can be an amazing experience when done safely. To support you, we’ve curated a list of safety tips to help you feel confident and secure on a first date.
1. Go on dates with verified people.
Our verification process ensures that the person you’re meeting with is who they present themselves as on Twyned. We recommend only going on dates with verified people.
2. Meet, and stay, at a public place.
For a first date, it's always wise to meet in a public place. Even if things are going well, we recommend avoiding a move to a private location, like your home or your date’s. If you feel pressured to do so, end the date.
3. Be in control of your transportation.
While carpooling with your date might seem convenient or efficient, it’s best to handle your own transportation on the first date. That way, you have the freedom to leave at any point.
4. Keep someone in the loop about your plans.
Make sure to share your plans with someone you trust. Let them know where you’re going and who you’re meeting, and communicate with them if anything changes.
5. Don’t leave drinks unattended.
Only accept drinks directly from a server or bartender, and never leave them unattended. It's impossible to detect if a drink has been tampered with, as most substances used to carry out sexual assault don’t change the beverage’s taste, smell, or appearance.
6. Don’t give out private information about yourself (or anyone else).
Early on, avoid sharing private information about yourself or others, like your home address, workplace, or financial details. Only share more about yourself once you’ve established trust with your date over time.
7. Trust your gut.
If something feels off or makes you uneasy, don’t dismiss it. Trust your instincts and take action—whether that means leaving the date or getting support from someone nearby or a loved one.
8. Report all harassment, violence, and abusive behavior.
If you experience harassment, violence, abuse, or any other form of mistreatment, know that it’s not your fault. We encourage you to report the incident to help keep our community safe and protect others from harm.
If you have a negative experience, regardless of how closely you follow these tips, know that it’s not your fault, and you deserve support. Please visit our Safety Resource List for assistance, or call 911 if you are in immediate danger.